1. Solving library connectivity problems within a state will not work, in general, with a bottom up apporoach--that is, by expecting each individual lirbary to independently negotiate with their local phone company representatives. Neither party necessarily has the long range perspective or clout to solve problems.

1. Solving library connectivity problems within a state will not work, in general, with a bottom up apporoach--that is, by expecting each individual lirbary to independently negotiate with their local phone company representatives. Neither party necessarily has the long range perspective or clout to solve problems.

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2. This is "Infrastructure" we are talking about.

2. This is "Infrastructure" we are talking about.

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Proposed solution

+

'''Proposed solution'''

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1. State library agencies need to be proactively engaged in setting long term goals, planning, even in negotiating connectivity for the libraries in the their states.

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1. State library agencies need to be proactively engaged in setting long term goals, planning, even in negotiating connectivity for the libraries in the their states, with state networks or with phone companies or with both.

2. They can pull together resources into a critical mass, help equalize connectivity costs, and negotiate with more clout.

2. They can pull together resources into a critical mass, help equalize connectivity costs, and negotiate with more clout.

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3. They need staff and authority to do so, as well as funding.

3. They need staff and authority to do so, as well as funding.

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Potential Sources

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'''Potential Sources of funds'''

E-Rate

E-Rate

Revision as of 07:53, 9 January 2007

Argument

1. Solving library connectivity problems within a state will not work, in general, with a bottom up apporoach--that is, by expecting each individual lirbary to independently negotiate with their local phone company representatives. Neither party necessarily has the long range perspective or clout to solve problems.

2. This is "Infrastructure" we are talking about.

Proposed solution

1. State library agencies need to be proactively engaged in setting long term goals, planning, even in negotiating connectivity for the libraries in the their states, with state networks or with phone companies or with both.

2. They can pull together resources into a critical mass, help equalize connectivity costs, and negotiate with more clout.

3. They need staff and authority to do so, as well as funding.

Potential Sources of funds

E-Rate
Charge-backs to libraries for connections
State funds
LSTA
Foundation support (temporary and focused on planning and start-up costs)